With a remarkable popularity at the recent Rugby World Cup ‘Ikale Tahi’ expects full support from French fans ahead of the pool decider against England, that awaits a stern test of nerves for both the teams and a win fetches quarter-final berth. Deemed a ‘red day’ in Tonga, where a number of churches are fasting with workplaces and schools encouraging people to adore the red color. Tonga has been one of the major surprises in this tournament, but who knows they might surprise again.
The reigning champion England searching for form, would like to prevail and is expected to do so with a considerable degree of comfort and will happily settle for a 20-point victory. Though it won’t be a cakewalk for the Englishmen and if they loose, they will become the first defending champions to exit the World Cup before the quarter-finals.
England Coach, Ashton with little worries said:
I think there was some anxiety before last weekend’s game with Samoa, but that anxiety has been replaced by a positive feeling of anticipation. We expect a physical game, a game in which the neutrals will be supporting the Tongans. I don’t believe there is any such thing as a neutral supporter when England are playing. It’s a big match, clearly, but I’ve been sleeping well.
A key battle, where England must combat Tonga’s big hitters like Joseph Vaka and Epi Taione. Ashton making a bold decision has brought in Lewis Moody as an open-side flanker. Wilkinson kicking 24 points on his return as England beat Samoa, now needs another 22 points to become the record points scorer in World Cups, eclipsing the 227 amassed by Scotland’s great Gavin Hastings.
England and Tonga have met only once at the 1999 World Cup, with England easing to a 101-10 victory.
Via: Independent
